Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. Looking for Senior Payroll Analyst at San Diego, CA  Full Time

The Senior Payroll Analyst is responsible for semi-monthly payroll processing for a growing, multi-state organization, taking new hires, terminations, bonuses, leaves of absence (LOA), relocations, direct deposits, wage garnishments, vacation/sick accruals, tax changes, healthcare premium deductions, flexible spending account deductions, ESPP deductions, and 401(k) deductions into consideration. Works closely with the Payroll Manager to manage third-party payroll-related vendors, ensure compliance in all areas of payroll, and work directly with employees to resolve outstanding payroll inquiries.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Prepares and coordinates all facets of semi-monthly payroll processing in multiple states.
• Interprets company pay policies, e.g., vacation, LOA, disability, workers comp, government regulations, withholding exemptions and ensures appropriate deductions are calculated and applied in a multi-state payroll environment.
• Acts as a point-of-contact for employees with payroll-related concerns and/or questions.
• Proactively identifies and resolves payroll discrepancies and determines the most appropriate method of communication to employees.
• Works closely with the SR Payroll Manager to critically review and analyze current payroll policies, including payroll tax implications, to recommend and implement changes leading to best-practice operations.
• Ensures that payroll operations are conducted in accordance with Sarbanes-Oxley internal controls.
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality at all times related to compensation information.
• Works closely with the SR Payroll Manager to manage 3rd party payroll-related vendor relationships, including payroll software, 401k, and relocation firm.
• Prepares and maintains payroll records and reports, including standard and ad hoc reports, to ensure data integrity, accuracy, and timeliness as required by Finance, HR, and Equity Stock Administration.
• Reviews and reconciles quarterly and annual, federal and state, payroll tax returns.
• Reviews and distributes annual W-2s.
• Prepares returns for multiple states.
• Prepares semi-monthly 401(k) transmittals for employee deferrals and company match.
• Provides documentation for payroll, 401k, and benefit audits; prepares annual 401k 5500 non-discrimination testing and work with auditors for Workers Compensation audit
• Assists in implementing, writing, and maintaining standard operating procedures for Payroll.
• Maintains payroll files and records in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Assists Sr Payroll Manager in year-end closing.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Works closely with Stock Administrators and have a strong understanding of all kinds of stock, including ESPP.
• Must know how to apply for tax ID’s especially for local taxes, school tax and Paid Leave
• Knowledge in amendments and understand Multi-jurisdiction
• Eagerness to master new systems

Education/Experience/Skills:

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, Human Resources or other related field. An equivalent combination of relevant education and applicable job experience may be considered. Minimum of 5 years of relevant progressive experience in payroll processing with a focus on commercial biotech organizations with multi-state operations. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is preferred.

• Strong understanding of Federal and multi-state wage and hour regulations and payroll tax filing procedures.
• Payroll subject matter expertise to advise the company, including knowledge of best practices regarding reimbursement of relocation expenses, taxable fringe benefits and auto allowances.
• Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) compliance experience.
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Strong ADP experience, additional experienced with Workday and Equity Edge a plus.
• Highly detail oriented, self-disciplined, and ability to work independently with limited direction to resolve discrepancies and issues.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills to ensure understanding of specific payroll matters.
• Effective interpersonal skills to resolve confidential and often sensitive issues related to compensation with employees.
• Strong and positive work ethic for a growing team environment.
• CPP Certification (Certified Payroll Professional)

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, see, talk or hear in a standard office environment. Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.

ACADIA is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veterans/Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity